So three weeks ago I started driving2:15 up and 2:15 hours back home to do the Pete Wernick Jam classes, anxious to play with other people for 2 1/2 hours. I know, it seems like not the best use of my time, but am learning how to play songs with other people, and even lead in singing a song or three. It’s fun, but my singing still scares small animals.
Now I find out today there is a jam session at a fire hall every Tuesday night only 30 minutes away, and another jam session on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month at the American Legion only 40 minutes away.
That means I have access to a jam Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday for the next three weeks, the 6 jam opportunities per month after that!
Good grief! Where did all these pickers come from?
So I’ll finish with the Wernick sessions in three weeks with enough confidence to stroll into these other jams.
Pinch me, I’m dreaming!!!
Now for all you struggling beginners out there - Keep following Ben’s learning tracks, but give some time to the idea of playing without tabs. Ben’s guiding you in that direction. I have been shocked at how many times while jamming with the Wernick group I’ve relied on tips & techniques I learned from Ben. The Build-a-Break stuff has been helpful, as well as that silly but fun Tex Critter video.
Finally, I was truly surprised to discover the Nashville Number System (a very useful thing to know) was developed by the Jordanaires (Elvis’ back-up singers, as well as gospel greats on their own) and later refined by Charlie McCoy (great harmonica player & session musician.)
It’s difficult for me to say this, but as a Beginner, my Expert opinion is I may not be a Beginner much longer. That’s kind of exciting, but I’ll be losing a great excuse for screwing up! (“Please bear with me. I’m just a beginner.”)
. Or maybe a better analogy is pushing you out the beginner’s nest. Either way, we cherish every moment together. Quick side story, while at a wedding reception, I’m talking to the guy who’s doing the picking and singing. He offers me to try out his Gibson J-45, to which a gladly accept and I reply “I’m just a beginner.” I pick the first few measures of Banjo Ben’s Jesus Loves Me. He responds by saying “you’re not a beginner.” Can you believe that? How dare he! Seriously though, that simple comment made my day.
